Former Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki passed away on November 2, 2026, at the age of 72. Kariuki had a distinguished career, serving as Attorney General from 2018 to 2022 in President Uhuru Kenyatta's government. He also served as the President of the Court of Appeal and a High Court judge. Kariuki's contributions to Kenya's judicial institutions are being remembered by leaders and Kenyans alike.
President William Ruto led the tributes, describing Kariuki as a dedicated public servant and a distinguished law practitioner. Ruto noted that Kariuki played a crucial role in shaping the professional development of Kenya's judicial officers as the founding director of the Judiciary Training Institute. The President conveyed his condolences to Kariuki's family, friends, and colleagues, praying for strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult time.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also mourned Kariuki, describing him as a renowned judge and dedicated public servant. Kenyatta remembered Kariuki's long and successful career, which left an indelible mark on Kenya's judicial and public institutions. The former President prayed for peace, strength, and comfort for the bereaved family during this period of grief.
Chief Justice Martha Koome and the judiciary also mourned Kariuki, remembering him as an accomplished jurist and dedicated public servant. Koome and the judiciary acknowledged Kariuki's invaluable contributions to the development and strengthening of Kenya's legal and judicial institutions. Kariuki's role in shaping the Judiciary Training Institute was particularly noted.
Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condoled with Kariuki's family, describing him as an accomplished lawyer who contributed immensely to Kenya's judicial institutions. Murkomen remembered Kariuki's distinguished roles, including his tenure as President of the Court of Appeal and Attorney General. The Cabinet Secretary prayed for Kariuki's soul to rest in eternal peace.
Messages of condolences poured in from Kenyans on social media, with some remembering Kariuki's tenure as Attorney General for his controversial legal interpretations and decisions. However, many leaders and Kenyans have chosen to focus on Kariuki's contributions to Kenya's judicial institutions and his dedication to public service.
Kariuki was the seventh Attorney General of Kenya, nominated for the post by President Uhuru Kenyatta on February 13, 2018, following the resignation of Githu Muigai. His legacy as a dedicated public servant and accomplished jurist will be remembered for years to come.
Key points
- Kariuki died aged 72 on November 2, 2026.
- Kariuki served as Attorney General from 2018 to 2022.
- Kariuki was also the President of the Court of Appeal.
